Balancing Maternal Autonomy and Fetal Wellbeing: A Challenging Ethical Dilemma

Name Institutional Affiliations Date Case and Topic Introduction The present case presents a complex ethical and medical situation that is touching on very sensitive issues like autonomy, patients’ right to make decisions about own body and well-being of the unborn child. In relation to the said issues, different members of the healthcare team present varying perspectives while reflecting on the diversity of ethical considerations on issues above-mentioned. The case involves Rachel, a 27 year old single woman diagnosed with terminal cancer at 14 weeks of pregnancy. Rachel experiences severe complication and is admitted to the ICU and there is a possibility of a major cardiac event. Following such a critical situation, Rachel exercises her autonomy and requests for a DNR order but in contrast the care team considering the high-risk scenario seeks consent for an emergency C-section in case of a cardiac arrest. Rachel refuses the C-section before 28 weeks expressing concerns about leaving a child with potential mental and physical disabilities as an orphan and instead chooses to die with the fetus. The main ethical dilemma revolves around the conflicting values of autonomy and the well being of the unborn baby. While exercising her decision-making abilities, Rachel asserts her autonomy by requesting for a DNR and refusing to consent for an emergency C-section before 28weeks. On the other hand, the healthcare team experiences a challenging situation demanding them to respect Rachel’s autonomy while considering the best interest of the unborn child. Major tension now lies in maintaining a balance between individual’s rights and choices of a pregnant woman and the perceived obligation to intervene for the sake of the unborn baby’s well-being. The evolving viability of the fetus and potential effects of prematurity further complicates the dilemma leading to an ethical challenge of finding a resolution that respects the mother’s autonomy while considering the impact on the fetus life and health. Definition of Terms DNR (Do Not Resuscitate): is a legal order implying that the victim does not wish to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the event of cardiac arrest. C-Section (Caesarean Section): proves a surgical procedure that helps in the removal of a baby from the mother’s uterus through incision. Autonomy: it is the principle of respecting a person’s individual rights to make decisions regarding their life and their body. In healthcare context, this right enables a patient to choose for or against medical interventions based on their preferences and values. Viability: refers to the ability of the unborn child to survive outside the womb. 28 weeks remains as the most viable gestation period based on Rachel’s consent to C-section request. Problem Statement and Road map The main ethical dilemma in the present case revolves around the conflicting principles of individual autonomy and the well-being of the fetus. Autonomy as a fundamental right argues that individuals like Rachel have the right to make decisions about their own body and medical interventions that suits them best. While respecting Rachel’s informed decision-making potentials, the care team should reflect on the potent